History

Detroit Lions Gridiron Heroes

Kevin Glover

OL

Maryland

Years with the Lions: 1985-97

Pro Bowls: 3 (1996-98)

Seasons: 13

Height: 6-2

Weight: 282

Photo courtesy of the Detroit Lions

In the middle of the Lions offensive line that led the way for Hall of Fame RB Barry Sanders was the reliable Kevin Glover at center. Glover was drafted by the Lions in the second round of the 1985 NFL Draft out of Maryland, and he proceeded to play 13 seasons (1885-97) for the Honolulu Blue and Silver, which is tied for fourth all-time on the team’s career list for most seasons played. He appeared in 177 games during his Lions career which is sixth all-time in franchise history.

Glover was not only one of the most durable players in team history, but he was one of the most respected leaders and well-liked players during his tenure. He was also among the best centers of the 1990s in the entire league, earning three trips to the Pro Bowl (1996-98). Glover was instrumental in the Lions claiming the NFC Central division titles in 1991 and 1993, along with playoff berths in 1994, 1995 and 1997. The 1991 squad set a franchise record with 12 wins and played for the NFC Championship that season.

From 1989-97, Glover was literally front-and-center as Sanders rushed for 13,778 yards and 95 rushing touchdowns in his first nine seasons, with four of those (1990, 1994, 1996 and 1997) finishing with the NFL rushing titles. With Glover’s leadership, effort and production upfront, the Lions led the NFL in total offense in 1995. Glover won the starting center spot in 1989 after starting at guard in 1988. Besides a nine-game stint to end the 1992 season due to injury, he started every game from 1988-97. Glover is one of just five regular starting centers in league history to block for a 2,000-yard rusher (Sanders rushed for 2,053 yards in 1997).